The Market Low-Down

Berlin might be many things, ask around and you'll see that the city is rich in so many aspects and has space for all types of people, and their own interests and ways of expression. One thing is for sure though, Berlin is a very green place. With over 2,500 public parks and spaces, forests surrounding the city and a green conscience, it's not surprising that markets are a big thing here! You can find all types of markets in Berlin, the typical farmers markets, weekend antiques & flea markets, food markets - and specialty themed markets. Rather than listing each separate market, the location of the market is listed, they are all vibrant hang-out spots, which come to life even more when the markets are on. Here's the low-down.

Running along the canal from Kreuzberg to Neukölln, Maybachufer houses some of our favourites spots. When the markets are not on, this is still a nice area to walk around, and it's worth checking out Brammibals (for vegan donuts), The Bread Station (for possibly the best bread in Berlin!) and Populus (a nice café). If you take a turn on Friedelstraße, you'll find some more nice spots, like Katies Blue Cat, OYE Records and Café Katulki (for cakes!). But, this street takes a different turn on market days. Locals and visitors to the city do their fruit and veg shopping on Tuesdays & Fridays. On both sides of the street, vendors have their stalls lined up, selling mostly seasonal produce, but really, it's easy to find almost anything. This market is known for being cheaper than most others in Berlin, so you can definitely find quite a few bargains here. Turkish - and other worldly hot foods are also sold here, with nice vegetarian options (wraps, sandwiches and hot dishes). Another idea is to stop by the Greek truck, and pick up some tasty dips and conserves, then pick up some fresh bread from another vendor, and have a picnic on the canal next to the swans who usually eagerly await on the water. The Nowkölln Flohmarket is a flea market, selling second-hand clothes, artisan goods and food, which is quite hip, and runs during the warmer months, this is usually on the weekend.

2. Winterfeldplatz

Winterfeldplatz Market is one of Berlins most celebrated farmers markets. Located in a lively area, surrounded by nice cafés, bars and restaurants. This market is especially great for people watching. In terms of goods on offer, the vendors at this markets, generally sell high-quality and organic fruits and vegetables, cheeses, fish, breads, flowers and various household goods (knives, spices, perhaps some old trinkets?). Although the produce sold here is a more expensive than at the Turkish Market, it still makes for a nice Saturday afternoon stroll. If you're looking for a place to sit down and eat after the market, I would make my way to Ixthys (Pallasstraße), a small Korean place known for its bibimbap.

3. Arkonaplatz

Arkonaplatz Market, held in a green and residential-feeling square in Mitte, has vendors come to together on Sundays all year round to see antiques, furniture, records, memorabilia and prints as well as a selection of food, fresh produce and miscellaneous goods . It's not far from Mauerpark, which holds a much larger and much more popular flea market on Sunday, but in terms of crowds and content, it's worlds away. It's much smaller, cosier and slower in its feel, with much of vendors having carefully curated their stock. It's not seldom, that you find a piece which has a story behind it, which can also mean a higher price tag, but doesn't necessarily. 5 minutes walk away, we can recommend a lovely Chinese restaurant called The Tree, for a balanced Chinese meal.

4. Straße 17 des Junis

One of Berlins oldest and most traditional antiques markets, right outside S Tiergarten station. Many people come here looking for specifics, many items in porcelain, brass, copper, wood can be found. Some furniture, books, prints and vintage clothing are also on display, alongside current items (although these are not the focus of this market). The prices here tend to be more expensive, as most of the vendors are professionals, but for the setting, heritage and cultural aspect, it's a market which I really wanted to include on this list.

Markthalle Neun is a great place to hang out, it's an indoor market off the side of the main road, which hosts various different markets. It has some permanent shops within, which include bakeries, cake shops, italian goods, a cantine serving lunch daily (except most Sundays) and a café right outside called Café 9. It's a hip spot, which attracts a nice crowd, enthusiastic about food. It can get quite busy at times, so time your visit well! The fruit & veg market sells organic, high-quality produce; whilst Streetfood Thursday and the Breakfast Market sell different street foods, ranging between established Berlin locals and street food specific vendors.